Cooper, Clarke Are Re-Elected

By Stephen Hadland

Observer Publisher

Throughout the evening the election was never in doubt. From the absentee ballots which were counted first to the last precinct councilmembers Jeff Cooper and Jim Clark maintained a strong lead over challengers Christopher Patrick King and Gary Abrams.

Cooper, currently serving a one year term as Mayor, was seeking a second full term while Clarke had just completed a two year stint on the council finishing out Scott Maslin's term after Malsin resigned two years ago.

Cooper posted the following message on his Facebook page. "I am proud of the faith the voters have put in me by re-electing me to Culver City Council tonight! I look forward to four more years of serving our incredible city.

Thank you to everyone who donated their time, energy and money to the campaign. EVERY ONE of you played an important part in our victory. And thank you, too, to Jim Clarke, Christopher King and Gary Abrams for a campaign that brought the important issues of our city to the voters. Now, let's all roll up our sleeves and make Culver City the best it can be!"

Voter turnout was the abysmal with a mere 12% of the registered voters going to the polls. City Clerk Martin Cole, who officiated over Tuesday night's ballot counting, said he believed voters were satisfied with the work of the current council. The vote count was done in council chambers in full view of the public and the entire vote tabulation process was visible live on the city's website.

The lineup will change dramatically in two years when three seats are up for grabs with at least two empty seats. Councilmembers Andy Weisman and Mehaul O'Leary term out and cannot run again. Councilmember Meghan Sahli-Wells seat will also be on the ballot, she has not yet indicated if she will seek reelection. King, should he decide to run will be a formidable contender for one of the open seats.

Semi Official Returns

Jeff Cooper 2167

Jim Clarke 2072

Christopher King 1181

Gary Abrams 288